In case you are surprised by the expression: learning tower, we would say that it is a very useful tool that allows the child to carry out daily activities independently, but together with the parents. These learning towers are based on the principle that the child should do things by himself, that is, discover and learn themselves. With this, you will achieve great autonomy for the child, while at the same time you will be reinforcing their self-esteem from a very young age.
Well, with the learning tower you can have the little one at your height, and I can help you. We give you some tips on how to choose the best learning tower for your home, which is the most suitable according to your space and other details.
How safe are Learning Towers?
The idea for invention of the learning tower is inspired by Montessori Teaching. It is a functional, simple and comfortable tool. The learning tower is a kind of bench or platform with railings so that the child and the parents feel safe. Its characteristic is that it is very sturdy and stable, it will be your child who will learn how to climb it and get the most out of it. Nowadays there is a wide catalogue of styles, just browse through the main furniture chains. The first ones that came out are wooden, decorated with various colours, which can be used for any decoration. But you will also find them with childish designs or plastic materials that are highly resistant, and easy to clean.
For being a piece of furniture that you will stay at home for a long time We recommend that you choose following some guidelines as the space you have to store it, and to place it unfolded, the budget you want to invest, what will be its use, besides a ladder can serve as a desk, blackboard, cave … and why not say, that fits with the style of the house.
Safety Tips to consider when using a Learning Tower
Learning Towers are an extremely handy item to have with Toddlers, particularly in the Kitchen. The most important thing to remember about Learning Tower Safety is that these guidelines are not a substitute for adult supervision. You should always be within arms reach of your child and supervise them at all times.
Before you invest in a Learning Tower it’s wise to do some research and establish that the Tower you’re considering has at the very least, been manufactured to an acceptable safety standard.
Secondly, review the company’s policy regarding materials. Not just whether the materials used are safe for the environment, but more importantly whether the materials used are safe to have around your children, and whether the manufacturer can guarantee that the materials do not have toxic fumes being emitted into your living environment. Whether the manufacturer can assure you that the paints and varnishes used, are low VOC (volatile organic compounds found in paint fumes) or non-toxic.
You would be very surprised to learn how very few mandatory guidelines exist around these very important issues. Below we have listed the major safety tips that will ensure you are providing your little one with the safest environment, whilst they are using their Learning Tower.
- Be Cautious – Ready to use the Learning Tower in the Kitchen or Bathroom? Be careful! Make sure you have checked that all poisonous, sharp or hazardous items have been put away, out of your child’s reach.
- That’s HOT – Just like the tip above this is about being careful! Please keep your children and the Learning Tower away from all HOT surfaces such as; Hotplates, Cooktops, Toaster, Irons and if using near water ( to wash hands or dishes), please ensure your hot water temperature is set to a level where it will not scold your child upon use.
- Flat and Solid Structures – Learning Towers can become safety hazards when they are used on uneven surfaces, or against structures that are not secure – this includes the sides of island benches. Ensure you have tested the stability of the Learning Tower before you allow your child to climb in.
- Out of Sight, Out of Mind – Put it away! Yes, on the rare occasion when you are not using your Learning Tower, put it out of sight. Toddlers are curious little people and they will love to climb the Learning Tower if given the chance.
- Check before Use – Always look over your Learning Tower before each use. Check for any spills or residue from previous cooking/play sessions. Also, take a look at the structure of the Learning Tower making sure to re-tighten screws overtime if need be.
At what age can they start using it?
According to the age of the child and the structure of the learning tower can be used in one way or another and will incorporate new uses as it grows. Its use is recommended from a year and a half, but from 12 months there are boys and girls who already develop an interest in verticality. You can use it for at least 4 or 5 years. The youngest ones usually start using it to drag it from one side to the other, until they begin to experiment with climbing.
The important thing for you to start using the Learning Tower is that the child can walk and can stand up. From 18 months onwards, baby is in the full power of his motor phase and will find an ideal companion to climb, climb, climb through holes, holes … It’s a game for them and peace of mind for you. As for the limit of its use, it will be when standing, its waist not going too far over the top bar, as this could represent a risk.
How to use the learning tower?
The learning tower is very practical in many contexts. The main advantage we have found is that you have the child by your side, sharing with you the tasks that are not dangerous and making him participate in them. Remember that this is an educational element that will give the child autonomy and, according to age, responsibility.
You can use it as a stool If your child helps you in the kitchen, washing tomatoes or other vegetables, also in the bathroom you can help him to be aware of his cleanliness and to wash his hands and teeth. Thanks to the learning tower, the little ones have enriching sensory experiences that involve fine motor skills. Thanks to being able to carry out these tasks, they are fun, with full curiosity and learning.
